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Akai MPK2 - Setup in Logic Pro X

The Akai MPK2 series controllers combine deep software integration, enhanced workflow, and core technologies from the iconic line of MPC workstations. The MPK225, MPK249, and MPK261 are engineered to be all-in-one controller solutions for comprehensive interfacing and manipulation of virtual instruments, effect plugins, DAWs, and more. This articles walks through how to setup the MPK2 series controller with Logic Pro X.

Logic Pro X Software Setup

While Logic Pro X allows for easy manual MIDI mapping, the team at Akai Professional has created a pre-made mapping file that allows for automatic mapping to the MPK2 series controller. Simply download the file located here, unzip the file, then add it to the following location in your Mac file structure:

~Library > Preferences

To get to the location above, from the Finder toolbar on your desktop, click on the Go menu. Press and hold the Option key to show the Library option in the drop-down menu. Click on Library, click on Preferences, then drag-and-drop the downloaded file to that location.

Once the mapping file has been added, follow the steps suggested below:

Open Logic Pro X and create a new session.

From the top toolbar, choose File > Project Settings >Synchronization...

In the Synchronization window, select the MIDI tab.

Within the MIDI Clock section, check the Destination 1 box and, in the drop down menu below, select Port A for your MPK2 series controller. In the MIDI Machine Control (MMC) section, check the Listen to MMC Input box.

Logic Pro X - Manual MIDI Mapping

If you would like to manually MIDI map the controls on your MPK2 series controller yourself rather than adding the mapping file as suggested in the previous section, you can do so by following the steps suggested below.

This menu allows you to map the faders and knobs of your MPK2 series controller to continuous controls in Logic Pro X such as volume and pan, as well as any parameter in Logic Pro X's effects and instruments. Many 3rd party effects and instruments will also work in this same way.

In the Controller Assignments window that opens, click the Learn Mode button at the bottom right corner so it is highlighted in blue.

Click on the parameter in Logic Pro X that you want to control, such as Volume, Pan, etc.. You will notice the Parameter option in the Controller Assignments window changes according to the parameter you click on.

Next, move the physical knob or fader on your MPK2 series controller that you want to assign to that parameter. You will notice the Input message option in the Controller Assignments window changes according to the physical knob or fader that you move.

Repeat these steps for any parameter you want to map. When you are finished, make sure to click Learn Mode again (so it is no longer highlighted).

NOTE: Logic Pro X stores these controller assignments globally. If you close and re-open the software or start a new project, your controller assignments will remain.